Channel: www.visitnorway.com

Verdens Ende – “The World’s End”

Verdens Ende (World's End) on the southern tip of Tjøme is probably best known for "Vippefyret" – the lighthouse, made by stones from the local beaches. The lighthouse is a replica built in 1932. The Færder National Park Center opened in June 2015. 

Færder National Park Verdens Ende is located in Færder National Park, which is one of the country's most important areas for coastal outdoor activities. The national park covers 340 square kilometers of mainland, islands, reefs and seabed in Færder municipality. It stretches from Ormøy in the north to Færder lighthouse in the south. The landscape in the national park is distinctive and rich in geological formations. There are several important nesting areas for seabirds in the national park, and the national park has a very diverse flora and fauna. Plants and insects live here that can hardly be found anywhere else. The area in the national park is popularly used for boat trips, paddling, water sports, hiking, fishing and swimming.

Færder National Park is easily accessible by boat, car and public transport. At World's End, you can drive a private car all the way to the border of the national park – this means that Færder National Park can be experienced by everyone.

For more info and how to get here, see https://www.visitvestfold.com/en/tonsberg/articles/Verdens-Ende-The-Worlds-End/ 

The coastal path through Vestfold

Along the Vestfold coast, marked walking trails lead through woodland, past beaches and across rocky shores overlooking the sea. You will find routes from Holmestrand and Horten in the north to Larvik and Helgeroa in the south. Choose a short local walk, a circular route or a longer point-to-point hike. The coastal trails have different starting points, distances and terrain. Choose your preferred section and check its local route description before setting out.

Coastal walks in Larvik and Stavern
Approximately 35 kilometres of marked coastal trails connect the areas around Stavern, Nevlunghavn and Helgeroa. The landscape alternates between sandy beaches, smooth coastal rocks, woodland and sheltered bays. Choose a shorter section for a relaxed walk by the sea or plan a longer outing along the coastline.

Explore the Sandefjord coast
Sandefjord has approximately 45 kilometres of marked coastal trails across the Vesterøya and Østerøya peninsulas. On Vesterøya, the paths lead towards Folehavna, where coastal woodland and rocky shores meet the remains of a former coastal fort. Østerøya offers routes towards Yxney, with varied natural scenery near the outer end of the peninsula.

Walking on Tjøme, Hvasser and Nøtterøy
Færder Municipality offers both shorter coastal walks and longer circular routes. On Hvasser, you can choose a short circular walk via Sandøsund and Lilleskagen, as well as longer routes around the island. In Moutmarka on Tjøme, the trail crosses an exposed coastal landscape of pebbles, smooth rocks and open sea views. Sturdy footwear and a windproof jacket are recommended. Nøtterøy also has several coastal trails passing through woodland and recreation areas near the sea.

From Tønsberg towards Horten
Around Tønsberg, coastal routes include Grevestien and paths towards Karlsvika and Vallø.
The approximately 10-kilometre route between Åsgårdstrand and Ringshaugstranda passes through woodland and coastal areas, including Essoskogen. From Åsgårdstrand, you can also walk north towards Horten, passing beaches, woodland and sites connected to the region's naval history. For a shorter walk in Horten, explore Karljohansvern.

Coastal trails in Holmestrand
Holmestrand Municipality offers walks along Sandebukta and routes extending south towards Horten. Between Sande and Holmestrand, part of the trail follows a former railway line close to the sea, with viewpoints and places to stop. The Berger–Sande route has more varied terrain. Be aware that some sections follow roads without separate pedestrian or cycle paths. Read more about coastal walking in Holmestrand before choosing your route.

Find the walk that suits you
Coastal trails across Vestfold range from established pedestrian paths and gravel tracks to uneven woodland trails and rocky shorelines. Distance, difficulty and accessibility vary considerably. Walking is possible in different seasons when weather and ground conditions allow. Wet rocks can be slippery, while exposed coastal sections may be windy.

Follow local trail markings, respect wildlife and vegetation, and take your litter home. Check any local restrictions on access and fires. For more walking inspiration, explore Hiking and coastal trails in Vestfold.

 

Plan your visit

Vestfold has many marked coastal trails, from short circular walks to longer routes between towns and villages. Choose your walking area before planning transport and access.

Distance and difficulty
Distances and terrain vary between routes. Choose from short local walks to longer coastal hikes. Surfaces may include pedestrian paths, gravel tracks, woodland trails, pebbles and coastal rocks. Check the individual route for distance and difficulty.

Trailheads, maps and transport
There is no single starting point for Vestfold's coastal trail network. Some walks are circular, while others require a return journey from a different location. Check maps, waymarking, public transport and parking for your chosen section.

Accessibility
Accessibility differs considerably between trails. Some sections use established walking paths, while others are narrow, steep or rocky. Do not assume that the entire network is suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or bicycles.

Good to know
Coastal walks can be enjoyed when weather and ground conditions allow, but woodland paths and rocks may be slippery. Some areas have protected habitats and local access restrictions. Follow trail signs, take your litter home and check current rules on fires and access.

Explore walking and coastal trails →

Bøkekroa

Bøkekroa is a traditional restaurant in Bøkeskogen, Larvik's beech forest, serving Norwegian home-style cooking, lunch and dinner. The menu features classics such as flesk og duppe, homemade Norwegian meatballs and schnitzel. With woodland trails nearby and a playground behind the restaurant, it is easy to combine a meal with time outdoors.

Traditional Norwegian food
The menu includes Norwegian favourites such as flesk og duppe, a traditional dish of pork and creamy sauce served with mashed root vegetables, along with beef patties, meatballs and plaice. Burgers, schnitzel and beef dishes are also available.

For a lighter meal, choose from open sandwiches, omelettes, salads and club sandwiches. Bøkekroa also offers a children's menu and vegetarian options. Several dishes can be adapted for guests requiring gluten-free or lactose-free food. Check the restaurant's website for current menus, prices and allergen information.

A break in the beech forest
Bøkekroa has been part of Bøkeskogen in various forms for more than a century. The present restaurant building was completed in 1988, and the business has been in the Sundal family since 1978. Marked walking trails run through the surrounding forest, and a playground is located just behind the restaurant. Enjoy a walk beneath the beech trees before lunch or stop for a meal during a day exploring Larvik.

Concerts and events
Bøkekroa has a long tradition of hosting music events in the forest. The summer programme includes concerts, while November brings traditional lutefisk dinners with entertainment. Check Bøkekroa's event calendar for upcoming dates, programmes and ticket information.

Private events and catering
Bøkekroa also provides venues and food service for private celebrations and meetings, as well as catering and takeaway meals. Contact the restaurant directly for information about menus, capacity and booking arrangements.

Opening hours and reservations
Bøkekroa operates throughout the year and is open every day of the week, with different opening hours on weekdays and weekends. Dinner service finishes 30 minutes before closing.

For table enquiries, takeaway orders or other questions, call +47 33 18 10 53. Visit the restaurant's website for the latest opening hours.

 

Stavern and Larvik Event

Stavern og Larvik Event collaborates with everyone offering gode experiences in Stavern and Larvik, and can therefore offer a number of different activities and experiences. The offer RIB, Sailing, Film Crew, Amazing Race, Cardboard boat race and much more!

Why should you choose Stavern and Larvik Event?

• Easy for you and your company – just call (+47)938 80 333

• You get a total package at no extra cost. The work of the Event agency is based on commision from subcontractors

• For those who want to succeed with others – you save time and money – and recieve good experiences. 

Anvik Gård

Anvik Gård is located in Brunlanes, between Stavern and Helgeroa. During summer, its pizza restaurant opens in the old barn, while the farm courtyard offers a relaxed setting for outdoor dining.

Pizza in the old barn
The former carrot-washing area has been transformed into a pizza kitchen, bar and dining space seating around 80 guests. With its high ceiling and old farm setting, the restaurant serves pizza and a selection of small dishes. On warm summer days, you can enjoy your meal outside in the courtyard. The informal atmosphere makes Anvik Gård a welcoming stop for holidaymakers and local visitors exploring Brunlanes.

A farm with a story
Anvik Gård has been in the family since the 1830s. Traditional farming gradually gave way to a farm shop and food service, and today the seasonal restaurant is a central part of life on the farm.

Opening hours and reservations
Anvik Gård opens during the summer season. Current opening days and times are published on the farm's website.

To reserve a table or order takeaway pizza, call +47 947 91 333 during opening hours. The farm is at Anvikveien 17, just off road 301 between Stavern and Helgeroa, following signs towards Hummerbakken.

 

 

 

Preus Museum

Preus Museum is Norway's national museum of photography, located at Karljohansvern in Horten. Here you can explore the history of photography, from early technical experiments to contemporary photographic art. The museum features Norwegian and international photography collections, a historical permanent exhibition and changing exhibitions that explore how photographs document, tell stories and shape the way we see the world.

From the first cameras to contemporary photography
How has photography changed the way we see the world? At Preus Museum, you can follow its development from early photographic techniques to today's digital images and artistic expressions. Historical photographs, cameras and photographic equipment reveal how the medium has evolved over generations. The museum holds an extensive collection of Norwegian and international photography. Discover the technological history of the camera alongside photography as an art form, a means of documentation and part of everyday life.

Changing exhibitions, new perspectives
Preus Museum has two galleries with temporary exhibitions presenting photography and visual art from different periods and backgrounds. The exhibitions explore a range of themes, inviting visitors to consider images and visual culture from fresh perspectives. Each visit may offer something different, with new photographs, artists and stories on display. Check the museum's current exhibition programme when planning your visit.

A photography museum in a historic naval warehouse
The museum occupies the fourth floor of Magasin A, a historic brick building dating from the 1860s. Originally used as a warehouse by the Royal Norwegian Navy, the space was adapted for museum use in 2001 by Norwegian architect Sverre Fehn. The old brickwork and maritime history give the museum a distinctive setting. Here, the story of photography meets Horten's naval heritage in the heart of the former naval base.

Guided tours, school visits and photographic heritage
Preus Museum offers guided tours for groups who would like to explore the exhibitions in greater depth. School classes and kindergarten groups accompanied by teachers receive free admission, and educational visits must be arranged in advance. The museum also has a specialist photography library and a national centre for photographic conservation, dedicated to preserving photographic materials. The library is currently closed for ordinary visits while work on the collections continues, although borrowing remains possible through the museum's arrangements.

Explore more of Karljohansvern
Preus Museum is situated in the historic naval area of Karljohansvern, surrounded by former military buildings, museums and green spaces. Nearby, the Royal Norwegian Navy Museum tells the story of Norway's naval forces through historic vessels, objects and exhibitions. After your museum visit, follow the walking route through Karljohansvern. The route passes historic naval buildings, follows the Horten Canal and continues through green spaces shaped by the area's maritime past.

Plan your visit
Preus Museum is located at Kommandørkaptein Klincks vei 7, Karljohansvern, Horten, approximately a 20-minute walk from Horten town centre and the ferry terminal.
The museum's regular opening hours are Wednesday to Friday, 11 am–3 pm, and Saturday to Sunday, 11 am–4 pm. 

It is normally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Special opening hours may apply during holidays. The museum is temporarily closed from 1 October through 20 November 2026 and is scheduled to reopen on 21 November. Admission costs NOK 100 for adults and NOK 70 for students and seniors. 

Children and young people under 18, as well as accompanying carers, receive free admission. School classes and kindergarten groups accompanied by teachers are also admitted free of charge. 

Guided group tours require advance booking and have separate charges. Parking is available in the large gravel car park outside the former shipyard wall. Parking is free for up to three hours, but registration through the EasyPark app is required.

Visit the Preus Museum website for current opening hours, exhibitions, admission prices, accessibility information and guided tour bookings.

 

Stavernguiden – Larvikguiden

Stavern guide – Larvik guide

STAVERN
Fredriksvern Church
Fredriksvern Wharf
Hergisheim, Wildenveys house
Minnehallen. Memorial for Norwegian seafarers/marine that lost their life during ww1 and ww2. With a beautiful view of the coastline. 

Boat trips around Viksfjord, Citadellet and Svenner Lighthouse

Walk along the coastal trail with guiding and pauses.
Art galleries

LARVIK
Thor Heyerdahls childhood home
Herregården
Galleri Engler (Gallery angels)
Mikrobryggeriet brewery
Business visits such as Farrisfactory, Norrek and more.
Touring a quarry with the towns rock, LARVIKITT-rock. 

Larvik and Stavern has a lot of different places to visit. Such as Indre Havn, Farris Bad hotel and spa, Bølgen, Tollerodden, Larvik Arena, Thor Heyerdahl high school, Bøkeskogen – Norways largest beech tree forest etc. This can be incorporated in the sightseeing in Larvik. Further places such as Nevlunghavn, Mølen, Helgeroa, Halle mølle, Tanum chuch, Kaupang Viking city, Lågendalen, Vindfjell is also worth a visit.

Look at the website for more suggestions.

Fredriksvern verft

Fredriksvern Naval Yard is located in the centre of Stavern and was established in 1750 as Norway's first naval shipyard. Inside the old fortifications, you can explore 18th-century buildings, military history exhibitions, art galleries and green spaces. The outdoor grounds are open to visitors throughout the year, with free admission. Museums, galleries and events have their own opening hours and may charge admission.

Explore the historic naval buildings
Walk through the entrance and follow the paths between the old buildings. Warehouses, workshops, galley sheds and other structures recall the years when Stavern was an important naval base. Visit Krutthuset, the historic gunpowder building. It offers a glimpse into how ammunition was stored at the fortified naval yard and is also used for exhibitions.
Take time to notice the old walls, architectural details and earthworks that still shape the site.

From a royal shipyard to Norway's naval headquarters
In 1750, King Frederik V ordered the construction of a fortified shipyard and naval station in Stavern. Its strategic position and harbour with two entrances made the location particularly suitable. More than 50 larger vessels were built here during the 18th century. After 1814, Fredriksvern became an important headquarters for the Norwegian navy. The naval cadet institute was established here in 1817.

The site was later used for military training and education by several branches of the armed forces. Permanent military operations ended in 2002. Today, the historic buildings are used for art, culture, education and emergency preparedness.

Art and exhibitions in historic surroundings
Fredriksvern Naval Yard is an important part of Stavern's art scene. Several former military buildings now house galleries featuring paintings, prints, sculptures and crafts. The summer season brings a changing programme of exhibitions, while Easter and autumn exhibitions have also become part of the area's cultural calendar. Check the current exhibition programme before visiting, as galleries have their own opening hours.

Join a guided historical tour
For a closer look at the site's history, join a guided tour arranged by Fredriksvern Verfts Venner, the association of friends of the naval yard. Tours can include military history exhibitions and normally take around 90 minutes. Group visits can be arranged throughout the year.
You are also welcome to explore the outdoor grounds independently.

Discover more of historic Stavern
Just outside the naval yard stands Fredriksvern Church, consecrated in 1756 as a garrison church. The church and Stavern's characteristic yellow buildings form part of the historic naval community. Across the harbour lies the Citadel on Stavernsøya, an older fortification that later became part of the Fredriksvern defences. For a longer walk, follow the Stavern coastal trail towards Minnehallen, Norway's memorial to sailors lost at sea.

Take a break by the water
The naval yard is right beside the harbour, within easy reach of rocky shores and beaches. In summer, you can also stop for something to eat at Galeien, a waterfront café on the site. The historic grounds are worth exploring at any time of year, especially when Stavern is quieter outside the busy summer season.

Help protect the historic site
Fredriksvern is a protected cultural heritage site. Please respect the historic buildings and fortifications, and follow signs where access is restricted. Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout the year, and barbecues and open fires are prohibited on the grounds. Please dispose of litter responsibly.

Plan your visit

Fredriksvern Naval Yard is in central Stavern. Explore 18th-century military buildings, walk through the historic fortifications and discover art galleries and exhibitions.

Opening hours and admission
The outdoor grounds are open 24 hours a day, all year, with free admission. Museums, galleries, guided tours, concerts and events have their own opening hours and ticket prices. Parts of the site may be closed during certain events.

Guided tours and exhibitions
Fredriksvern Verfts Venner arranges guided tours for groups. A typical tour takes approximately 90 minutes and may include military history exhibitions. Tours must be arranged in advance. Art exhibitions are held mainly during summer and on selected dates.

Getting here and parking
The visitor address is Fredriksvern verft 1, 3290 Stavern. Paid parking is available within the grounds and in Stavern town centre. By public transport, take the train to Larvik and continue by bus to Stavern.

Terrain and accessibility
The outdoor grounds can be explored on foot, but surfaces, door thresholds and access to individual historic buildings vary. Contact the relevant organiser in advance if you have specific accessibility requirements for a museum visit or guided tour. Toilets are available on site.

Good to know
Fredriksvern is a protected heritage site, and some buildings remain in active use. Follow signs and respect restricted areas. Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout the year, and barbecues and open fires are prohibited.

Visitor information →

Art Nouveau town Sandefjord

Sandefjord has a lesser-known side waiting to be discovered in its historic architecture. Throughout the town centre, you can find buildings with decorative façades, curved details, wrought-iron balconies and features inspired by the Art Nouveau style of the early 20th century. Many of these buildings were constructed after devastating fires changed the town. Look up as you walk through the streets, and you will discover traces of this history in the architecture around you.

Discover Art Nouveau above the shop windows
It is easy to miss Sandefjord's architectural details when walking along its shopping streets. But above the shop windows, you can spot decorative window frames, elaborate brickwork, curved shapes and wrought-iron balcony railings. Art Nouveau drew inspiration from the lines and shapes found in nature. Alongside historicism, which borrowed architectural features from earlier periods, it influenced the new buildings constructed as Sandefjord was rebuilt. The streets around Storgata, Kongens gate, Kirkegata and Chr. Hvidts plass are good places to look for examples of architecture from this period.

The fires that changed Sandefjord
Sandefjord experienced major town fires in 1882, 1900 and 1915. The most destructive occurred on 16 March 1900, when large parts of the town centre were destroyed. Among the buildings lost were the former church and part of the town school. Following the fire, the town centre was redesigned with straighter streets, new blocks and regulations requiring brick and masonry construction. Architects and craftspeople arrived to help rebuild Sandefjord, creating much of the historic streetscape that can still be seen today. Another major fire in 1915 affected buildings in Storgata. The architecture now reflects several periods of rebuilding and town development.

Take an architectural walk through town
A good place to begin is Chr. Hvidts plass. From here, follow Storgata through the town centre and look for buildings from different periods, with decorative details that reflect Sandefjord's reconstruction and development as a trading town. Continue through Kongens gate and Kirkegata, where you can see how Art Nouveau and historicism influenced the architecture. One interesting stop is Sandefjord Church, completed in 1903 after the previous church was destroyed in the fire of 1900. You can also admire St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at Chr. Hvidts plass. Designed by architect Haldor Larsen Børve and built in 1917–1918, the building is a good example of Art Nouveau architecture in Sandefjord.

Combine your walk with more of Sandefjord
An architectural walk is easy to combine with a coffee break in the town centre or a stroll towards the waterfront. Follow Jernbanealleen towards Badeparken, a green public park with sculptures and walking paths. From here, the harbour and the Whaling Monument are nearby.

Plan your visit
Sandefjord's Art Nouveau architecture is spread throughout the historic town centre. There is no single museum building or entrance to the area.
You can explore the streets throughout the year, free of charge and without booking. Allow time to wander through several streets, as many of the most interesting architectural details are found above street level. Sandar Historielag, the local history association, has published a booklet about Sandefjord's Art Nouveau architecture. Visit the Sandar Historielag website for information about the association and its local history publications.

 

Marked trails from the center of Sandefjord

These marked trails for walking or jogging are starting from Matrosgata 6, in Sandefjord town center.

A free map are available at DNT Sandefjord in Matrosgata 6.

Five tours are marked with blue and T-signs on poles. In the terrain, it is marked with blue paint.

– Preståsen, easy walk 3.5 km
– Stub – Hjertnes forest, a little demanding 5.9 km
– Fjellvikåsen via Rødsåsen, little demanding 7.3 km
– Mokollen, Midtås and Mølleråsen, a bit demanding 6.3 km
– Culture Walk, easy walk 6.9 km